I've never found a California Sangio I loved although I've tasted some I didn't hate (e.g. Atlas Peak). The only thing I avoid with even more fervour is CA Nebbiolo - unremitting crapola in my experience. Glad to see you found a good one.

BTW, my measure of quality is based on cost and taste. If it costs twice as much as a Chianti that tastes better than it does, then the CA wine has no reason for being. If it is just as good and the same price, I'd consider it.

Bill Spohn wrote:I've never found a California Sangio I loved although I've tasted some I didn't hate (e.g. Atlas Peak). The only thing I avoid with even more fervour is CA Nebbiolo - unremitting crapola in my experience. Glad to see you found a good one.

BTW, my measure of quality is based on cost and taste. If it costs twice as much as a Chianti that tastes better than it does, then the CA wine has no reason for being. If it is just as good and the same price, I'd consider it.

The best thing they did with Atlas Peak Sangiovese was blend it with Cabernet Sauvignon, Bill.

CA Sangiovese in general is really, really good for rose', and makes a lovely additive variety for Blanc de Noirs Sparkling as well.

Bill Spohn wrote:I've never found a California Sangio I loved although I've tasted some I didn't hate (e.g. Atlas Peak). The only thing I avoid with even more fervour is CA Nebbiolo - unremitting crapola in my experience. Glad to see you found a good one.

BTW, my measure of quality is based on cost and taste. If it costs twice as much as a Chianti that tastes better than it does, then the CA wine has no reason for being. If it is just as good and the same price, I'd consider it.

That's been my general experience as well, Bill.

Fields wines are pretty reasonably priced. Not sure it would meet the "as cheap as cheap Chianti" rule.

Da Rosa in Dry Creek makes an "OK" Sangiovese, but when they blend it with Sangratino (yes, Sangratino!) it makes an impressive and delicious wine. This may be heresy, even, but I prefer it to most of the Umbrian versions I have had!

Luna's "Reserve" Sangiovese bottling was pretty good. They also charged $50 for it. The regular bottling takes like liquefied candy red hots, if I recall.

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